Houston Air Toxics Biomarkers of Exposure Study (HATBES)

The Houston Air Toxics Biomarkers of Exposure Study (HATBES) is a research project that will investigate the utility of measuring various biomarkers of exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in human populations.

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What is the HATBES Project?

The Houston Air Toxics Biomarkers of Exposure Study is a research project that will investigate the utility of measuring various biomarkers of exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in human populations. HATBES will also attempt to determine the relationship between concentrations of organic contaminants in air and biomarkers of exposure in serum and urine. HATBES will collaborate with a study on biomarkers of inflammation, to be conducted by Dr. Jonathan Ward at the University of Texas Medical Branch, as well as the Houston Exposure to Air Toxics Study (HEATS) currently under way.

The work will include the following tasks:

1. Investigate the utility of a solid-phase microextraction method for extraction and analysis of VOCs in serum or urine.

3. On a limited basis, compare the results obtained from gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis of serum and urine with results obtained using ion mobilization–mass spectrometry and measuring hemoglobin adducts in serum using LC-MS/MS.

4. Coordinate with performing parties in related studies for data collection, public participation, data analysis, and public meetings.

What Does This Study Seek to Accomplish?

This year-long study will determine biomarker concentrations in blood serum and urine. The researchers will examine the utility of biomarker concentrations as an indication of ambient exposure to compounds of concern as well as correlate biomarker levels observed to levels measured in the ambient air.